Published on: September 14, 2025, 04:05h.
Updated on: September 14, 2025, 04:05h.
- Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority fined $1.175 million for alleged breaches in anti-money laundering regulations.
- SIGA operates seven casinos within Saskatchewan.
- SIGA intends to contest the imposed decision.
The Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) is poised to challenge a $1.175 million penalty levied by the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC).
Issues Related to Reporting Suspicious Transactions
FINTRAC revealed that the Saskatchewan casino operator was fined for failing to adhere to administrative guidelines outlined in the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (PCMLTFA). SIGA allegedly breached regulations designed to combat money laundering.
According to FINTRAC, the infractions included the failure to submit suspicious transaction reports when there were legitimate grounds to believe that the transactions were connected to money laundering or funding terrorist activities. Other infractions involved not reporting suspicious transactions with the required information, as well as failing to develop and implement written compliance policies that are regularly updated and sanctioned by a senior official.
Ongoing Compliance Audits by FINTRAC
PCMLTFA serves as the legal foundation for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing efforts in Canada.
“Canada’s Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorist Financing Regimen is established to ensure the safety of Canadians and fortify Canada’s economy,” stated Sarah Paquet, Director and Chief Executive Officer of FINTRAC. “FINTRAC collaborates with businesses to assist them in understanding and fulfilling their obligations under the Act. We will also act decisively to ensure compliance when necessary.”
Proceeding with an Appeal
In a statement to Casino.org today, SIGA confirmed its intention to appeal the decision.
“It is important to clarify that the penalty is solely concerning administrative reporting requirements. There have been no incidents of money laundering, terrorist financing, or other financial misconduct occurring at SIGA properties. SIGA contests the findings of violations determined by FINTRAC and the associated penalties. We will be appealing both the violations and the imposed fines to the Federal Court.”
SIGA emphasized that it maintains a compliance program that is “regularly” audited by FINTRAC.
BCLC Faced Similar Penalty from FINTRAC in August
“SIGA collaborates with various regulatory bodies during our operations and prioritizes the support and adherence to regulatory standards.”
In August, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation also announced its decision to appeal in Federal Court against a ruling by FINTRAC, which resulted in a fine exceeding $1 million for breaches of anti-money laundering legislation.
The lottery corporation faced penalties for three alleged violations of the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act.
Founded in 1996, SIGA manages seven casinos in Saskatchewan – offering slot machines, live table games, electronic table games, live entertainment, and a variety of lounges and dining options. Additionally, it runs PlayNow.com, the only legally authorized online gaming and sports betting platform in Saskatchewan.